Depressive status and oral health-related quality of life in Turkish Pre- and post-menopausal women: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

The menopausal transition is associated with biological, psychological, and social changes that may influence both mental well-being and oral health. Understanding the interaction between depressive symptoms and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) may help clinicians better address the needs of women during this period. The aim of this study was to evaluate depressive status and OHRQoL in premenopausal and postmenopausal women and to investigate the relationship between depressive symptoms, OHRQoL, and selected demographic factors.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry between January and March 2025. A total of 187 women participated in the study, including 97 premenopausal and 90 postmenopausal individuals. Demographic characteristics and oral complaints were recorded. OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14), and depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Group comparisons were performed using independent samples t-tests, and correlations between variables were analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis. Internal consistency of the instruments was assessed using Cronbach's alpha.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in PHQ-9 scores between the premenopausal and postmenopausal groups (p > 0.05). However, OHIP-14 scores were significantly higher in the premenopausal group, indicating poorer OHRQoL (p < 0.05). A moderate positive correlation was found between OHIP-14 and PHQ-9 scores (r = 0.566, p < 0.001). Both scales demonstrated good internal consistency (OHIP-14 α = 0.901; PHQ-9 α = 0.770).

CONCLUSIONS

Although menopausal status was not associated with differences in depressive symptoms, OHRQoL was more adversely affected in premenopausal women. The significant positive association between OHIP-14 and PHQ-9 scores indicates that increased depressive symptoms are related to poorer oral health-related quality of life. These findings highlight the importance of considering psychosocial factors when evaluating oral health and planning dental care for women across menopausal stages.